Agency receives funds to promote Berkeley County

June 22, 2011

MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — The Martinsburg-Berkeley County Convention & Visitors Bureau has been awarded $131,126 through the Matching Advertising Partnership Program from the West Virginia Tourism Commission.

The funding will be used to implement the MBCCVB’s annual marketing campaign that showcases the Eastern Panhandle, specifically Martinsburg and Berkeley County, as a tourist destination.

“We built our 2011-12 marketing campaign around the fact that there’s so much to do here,” said Andrea Ball, executive director of the MBCCVB. “We believe that prospective visitors, when educated on the ease of travel, close proximity to major metro areas, availability of activities and ample hotel rooms, will choose our area over other options for weekend getaways.”

The new campaign will feature a “More in Martinsburg” theme and will highlight the area’s cultural and natural attractions, family-friendly activities and signature tourism events in Berkeley County. The MBCCVB has implemented award-winning campaigns in previous years, including “Go West: West Virginia” and “Discover Our Treasures.”

In total, the West Virginia Tourism Commission approved about $2.5 million in state funds to other tourism organizations. MAPP grants allow state tourism organizations to increase their advertising through matching partnerships with the state. The matching fund program, which began in 1995, supports efforts to promote West Virginia as a premier tourist destination.

The Martinsburg-Berkeley County Convention & Visitors Bureau advances the awareness of the area’s resources and special events, and is committed to increasing visibility and visitation to the area’s business, historical, educational and cultural endeavors. The MBCCVB Visitors Center, at 115 N. Queen St. in downtown Martinsburg, provides visitor services and information seven days a week.